[e-drug] Cough syrups (cont)

[jreinstein@wsmi.org]

E-drug: Cough syrups (cont)
---------------------------------------------

Re: Dr Lexchin's comment of 11 Oct.
Sorry to carry this discussion further, but Joel Lexchin's arguments are not
complete.

The FDA would not appear to have the references mentioned by Dr Lexchin.
They have accepted the clinical pharmacology tests, but there are other
clinical studies that have shown effectiveness. In fact there are tests
other than the one Dr Lexchin mentioned which are used to demonstrate
efficacy. As is well known, codeine had been used in coughs due to colds for
many years based on clinical evidence long before the clinical pharmacology
tests he mentioned were required by FDA.

It is important to remember that cough 'suppressants' in therapeutic doses
only reduce but do not eliminate coughing.  This reduction is of significant
benefit to patients, especially at night, while not preventing expectoration
entirely.

Jerome Reinstein

Dr Jerome Reinstein, Director-General
World Self-Medication Industry (WSMI)
15 Sydney House, Woodstock Road
London  W4 1DP, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 20 8747 8709
Fax: +44 (0) 20 8747 8711
e-mail: jreinstein@wsmi.org
www.wsmi.org
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